Chapter 72

Although the threat was not directed at her, Maxi still felt a shiver run down her spine. Riftan held his glare against Ursuline's defiant look for a long moment, then shook off the knights that were restraining him. He returned to Maxi and grabbed her arm before striding off.

Still shaken, Maxi glanced back at the knights before scrambling up the stairs to keep up with Riftan. He marched past the gate, not bothering to slow to her pace like he usually did. Maxi almost had to run to match his strides as they hastened through the garden.

"R-Riftan…"

At the sound of Maxi's trembling, breathless voice, Riftan finally came to a stop.

Maxi did not know what to say; her mouth simply parted, but no words came forth. The shame crept in as the shock wore off. How could she have allowed such a humiliating display in front of him? All she wanted was to remain an elegant and dignified lady in his eyes.

She ducked her head to hide the tears welling up.